Car Key Lost Replacement
Losing car keys can be a major hassle. However, with a bit of patience and the right steps and some help from a professional, you can get your replacement key quickly.
First, look every place you can think of - check your pockets, your purse, and even the back of your car. Next, find the nearest authorised dealership of your car's manufacturer.
Metal Keys from the Old School
If you lose your car keys, the first thing to do is call a locksmith and have them create an entirely new set. This is much cheaper than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer, and will be more secure.
You can also make use of an old-fashioned metal blank key, which are similar to the kind of keys for door locks and can be cut at the majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will use the key code from the owner's manual for your vehicle to connect the key to the ignition and locks.
You can also have your vehicle taken to the dealer for a re-key. They'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which can be found on the driver's side doorpost or in the trunk or stamped on a plate on the dashboard of the driver's side. They will then link the new key with your car's computer, so it will not function if you lose it again.
The dealer will need to reset the immobiliser in case you have a transponder. This is a more complex procedure, and will likely cost more. It is possible to get a discount from a dealer in the event that you lose your car key. It's worth asking for a price.
Smart keys are expensive to replace as they appear unlike a traditional car key and operate remotely. They can start your car with just a single button press, and turn it on. They're also harder to copy than older keys for cars.
Having a spare car key can help you avoid the expense of lost replacements however not everyone has a spare at all times. If you're the kind of person who is prone to misplace things, consider purchasing a key fob for your vehicle so you don't have to worry about it if it gets lost.
Fobs
Fobs are much more expensive than old metal keys, and can be integrated into sophisticated vehicle-security systems. They're also not impervious to damage. They can be damaged by extreme temperatures, and also being hit and dropped. car key replacement can fail or even break at any moment. They also have batteries that must be replaced regularly however, they aren't able to last forever.
If you lose your car key You'll need to locate a locksmith or a dealership that specializes in your kind of vehicle. Locksmiths are able to duplicate and program key fobs but you may need to bring your VIN number as well (usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb, or in your owner's manual). You could be able save money if your car warranty or roadside coverage plan covers lost or stolen key.
For newer vehicles or top-end brands such as Mercedez you may be able to purchase replacement keyfobs from a dealership. This is because the process of preparing a replacement requires a certain level of technical and security knowledge that the manufacturer has exclusive rights to.
Thankfully, most key fobs are quite affordable and simple to replace when you have the appropriate spare. A lot of hardware stores sell them, and some specialize in automotive key duplication.
Although there's no guarantee you'll find your lost item, you can take steps to improve the chances of finding it, including putting a Tile or AirTag on it, and using a smartphone app to help you find it. Retrace your steps since the last time you saw it, and check the lost and found of any businesses or floors you visited.
Before you buy an alternative it is advisable to take the time to determine what happened to the previous one. Did it fall into a crack? Was it dropped on the street? You might be able to get it back if you left it in a restaurant or in the back of a cab. You might be able to retrieve your vehicle if you left it there. You'll need to buy another vehicle and pay towing fees in the event that you don't.
Smart Keys Keys
There are occasions when even the best of us lose sight of our car keys. It could be something as simple as placing keys in the refrigerator while you're enjoying a drink or something more serious such as forgetting to lock the trunk while loading groceries. Whatever the circumstance, it's important to know the options available to ensure you're prepared should you find yourself needing a car key lost replacement.
The first option, and most affordable is to contact an auto locksmith. They typically have all the tools needed to complete the task and will be able to provide you with a new key in a fairly short period of time. They can also assist with other issues related to your vehicle, such as opening a door that's locked or starting your car.
Asking your car dealer to help is another option, especially in the case of smart-key systems. This type of key sends out an low-frequency signal to the vehicle's embedded antennas that confirm the driver is near enough to be able to open or start the vehicle. It can even store the individual settings of the driver for the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel position, reports How Stuff Works Electronics.
However, these systems could be vulnerable to hacking by tech-savvy thieves who are able to detect the signal and intercept it. This could lead to your vehicle being stolen, or worse, used as an escape route using a remote. Fortunately, some models, like Mercedes-Benz smart keys, employ different frequencies to avoid this from happening.
You can also contact your insurance company for autos or roadside assistance. If you're covered by their terms and conditions, they could be able offer the replacement. However they can be expensive and take some time to arrive.
This type of key is a great option to have an extra in the event in the event of a crisis. You never know when you will need a ride from the grocery store, so having a spare key in your possession will give you peace-of-mind if you're out and about.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are common in cars made in the last 20 years. This anti-theft device is also called a "chip" key. It makes it difficult to hot wire a vehicle. The keys transmit a message to the computer system of your vehicle when you insert them into the ignition. If the computer system recognizes the signals, it will be able to start the car. This helps protect your luxury car or family rig from being stolen and also lets you know that only you is driving it. Although these keys are more expensive to replace than a standard non-transponder key but the added security is worth the cost for many.
Call your local locksmith if you have lost the transponder keys. They have the tools to replace keys for a variety of vehicles and charge less than dealerships.
If you choose to go the dealership route you'll probably require bringing your old key fob so they can purchase a new one for you. This could take a couple of days and cost you a significant amount of money.
A locksmith can also cut a spare key. They can cut most key types, and even the switchblade key (which has a built-in lock), but they can't program it to your vehicle. This might work if don't have any other spares but isn't ideal.
The final option is to call the dealership for your car and ask them to order the new transponder chip/key fob that is compatible with your vehicle. This usually takes a few days and will be the most expensive option of all.
It's a pain to lose your keys to your car, but it doesn't have be as bad as you think. You can quickly get back on the road with the assistance of a professional and keep your car safe from thieves. Keep a spare car key in your bag or pocket and be aware of where you are while driving.